Vertical Vendor is a convenient merchandising unit for branding that also uses less space

By Kayla Matthews

Toronto-based Maple Leaf Displays Inc. has launched a new product in Canada called Vertical Vendor that innovates the point-of-purchase display formula.

In the past, store display units followed a simple pattern for attracting a customer's attention. They would see marketing material for a piece of merchandise next to the merchandise itself — a tried-and-true technique.

Vertical Vendor takes that same concept and expands on it. The display uses a calibrated spring and advanced injection-moulded air-flow system to provide convenience for customers and employees alike. When a customer removes an item, Vertical Vendor automatically elevates the remaining stock to replace it.

In Europe, brands such as Coca Cola, Heineken, Corona and Carlsberg are using vertical vendors with great success.

This improvement in point-of-purchase displays is also timely, given the decision from Ontario's government to officially expand beer and wine sales to convenience stores. The coming changes may demand a new solution, and Vertical Vendor represents a significant step forward in display technology.

To provide context, Vertical Vendor contains more than four metres of shelving space within a 420-by-290-millimetre footprint. It enables a considerable number of standard can multi-pack configurations, affording a business owner a high degree of flexibility in how they decide to organize their merchandise.

In other words, Maple Leaf Displays' new product has clear value for a variety of companies. The introduction of these displays has shown to increase sales by up to 35% or more, a substantial boost for any business owner. Marketers in Canada have already taken notice, and they're naturally curious about the display's capabilities.

The Design of Vertical Vendor

The unique design of Vertical Vendor accounts for its impressive results. As stated earlier, it uses a calibrated spring that accommodates different product weights. It pairs the mechanism with an injection-moulded top platform and a patent applied internal air-flow system.

When these components work together, they streamline the stocking and restocking process. The display also comes with fully interchangeable branding capabilities, giving a business owner the freedom to switch brand or store campaigns with minimal effort. Of course, the displays vary in size as well.

Maple Leaf Displays has adjusted their design to satisfy a range of requirements. A business owner can invest in smaller displays if they have limited space, or they can invest in larger ones for a more expansive layout. Vertical Vendor provides four-, six-, eight-, 12-, 18- and 24-pack configurations for displays and drink stations.

Vertical Vendor provide different units for various package formations of cans from a four pack to six pack and the 24-Pack Unit which is the number one seller because it can hold a configuration of the following packs:

4-pack
6-pack
8-pack
12pack
18-pack
24-pack

It has obvious appeal for convenience store owners who must adapt to expanded beer and wine sales. They'll efficiently manage their inventory of alcohol, meeting the demands of customers while taking the pressure off employees. Vertical Vendor has a broad spectrum of benefits for various individuals.

Advantages of the New Display

Business owners have used point-of-purchase displays as an effective marketing strategy for many years. They can take numerous forms, from a simple sign to a special event. Retailers, auto dealers, restaurants, banks and even construction companies engage in the practice, and it's easy to see why.

A customer may fail to notice a new product if there's nothing to distinguish it from other merchandise. A colourful, eye-catching sign can quickly draw the attention of that customer and make them momentarily pause. It's a simple method for moving products, and Vertical Vendor builds on its success.

Rendering of shopping centre aisles with Vertical Vendor units

Not only is a customer attracted to a Vertical Vendor display, but the product rests at a comfortable height. It reduces the effort involved in the purchasing decision, leading to a higher frequency of impulse sales and greater engagement. The design alleviates the initial doubt a customer may feel over their choice.

Vertical Vendor's compact shape allows for flexible placement. The business owner can maneuver their display depending on sales activity or a specific campaign. If they have to rebrand Vertical Vendor for a new promotion, they can adjust its appearance in a short amount of time.

In summary, this recent release from Maple Leaf Displays Inc. is a notable advancement in point-of-purchase displays. With the product's convenient design, high-grade metal composition, simplified mobility and adaptability, you'll likely come across several Vertical Vendors in the next few years.

New Opportunities

The point-of-purchase concept has seen many variations throughout its long history. With all these changes, the idea has remained the same: a simple formula which has proven its value for business owners. When you emphasize a product with a display, that product will see greater attention from your customers.

Now, after strut cards, dummy packs, standees, hanging signs, banners and other modifications to the original idea, Maple Leaf Displays has released something different. Vertical Vendor is a significant deviation from the classic design of point-of-purchase displays, while still retaining their benefits.

In short, business owners should give thought to their existing setup and the potential of Vertical Vendor for their store. With the tide of new legislation and changing technologies, it's crucial to remain current and grab hold of opportunities as they present themselves.

For more information on Maple Leaf Displays’ Vertical Vendor, email: sales@mapleleafdisplays.ca

*Partner Content. To work with Retail Insider, contact: craig@retail-insider.com

Kayla Matthews is a researcher, writer and blogger covering topics related to technology, smart gadgets, the future of work and personal productivity. She is the owner and editor of ProductivityTheory.com and ProductivityBytes.com. Previously, Kayla was a senior writer at MakeUseOf and contributing freelancer to Digital Trends. Kayla's work on smart homes and consumer tech has also been featured on Houzz, Dwell, Inman and Curbed. Additionally, her work has appeared on Quartz, PRNewswire, The Week, The Next Web, Lifehacker, Mashable, The Daily Dot, WIRED and others.

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